Member-only story

Technology and Madness: Exploring the Dark Side of Computational Capitalism

Chad Price

·7.5k Followers· Follow

Published in The Age Of Disruption: Technology And Madness In Computational Capitalism

5 min read · 2 weeks before

437 View Claps

36 Respond

Save

Listen

In the relentless march of technological progress, we have come to embrace the transformative power of computation. From the mundane tasks of daily life to the cutting-edge frontiers of scientific research, computational capitalism has permeated every aspect of our existence. However, beneath the veneer of convenience and efficiency lies a hidden undercurrent of madness, a sinister underbelly that threatens to erode our very humanity.

The Allure of Computational Control

Computational capitalism thrives on the promise of control. It offers us algorithms that optimize our schedules, self-driving cars that promise to liberate us from the mundane tasks of transportation, and facial recognition software that unlocks the doors to our homes. By ceding control to computational systems, we buy into the illusion of a more efficient, frictionless existence.

The Age of Disruption: Technology and Madness in Computational Capitalism

by Bernard Stiegler

4.3 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1169 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	416 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

However, as we become increasingly reliant on computation, we surrender a piece of ourselves. Our decisions, once shaped by our own values and experiences, are now influenced by the biases embedded in algorithms. Our social interactions, once characterized by face-to-face encounters, are mediated by screens and social media feeds. We become mere data points, processed and analyzed by unseen forces that shape our perceptions and behaviors.

The Erosion of Authenticity

In the realm of computational capitalism, authenticity becomes a commodity. Social media platforms incentivize us to present a curated version of ourselves, airbrushing away our imperfections and projecting an idealized self. Filters and editing tools allow us to manipulate our appearance, creating a false sense of control over our bodies and identities.

The pursuit of perfection through computational means fosters a culture of obsessive self-scrutiny and self-commodification. We become prisoners of our own digital images, constantly comparing ourselves to idealized versions of others. The relentless pressure to conform leads to anxiety, depression, and a sense of alienation from our true selves.

The Commodification of Madness

In the twisted logic of computational capitalism, even madness becomes a marketable product. Mental health apps offer instant diagnoses and therapeutic interventions, reducing complex human struggles to quantifiable data. Neurotechnologies promise to enhance cognitive performance and treat mental illnesses, but raise ethical concerns about the manipulation of our minds.

The commodification of madness erodes our understanding of mental health as a multifaceted human experience. It reinforces the stigma associated with mental illness and reduces individuals to their symptoms. By treating madness as a mere technical glitch, we overlook the profound existential and social factors that contribute to mental suffering.

The Pathology of Social Media

Social media platforms, while providing unparalleled connectivity, also contribute to a pervasive sense of isolation and alienation. The constant stream of curated content, filtered through algorithms, creates an echo chamber of likes and follows. We surround ourselves with people who reinforce our existing beliefs and opinions, fostering a sense of complacency and distrust towards those who hold different views.

Furthermore, social media platforms exploit our psychological vulnerabilities. Notifications, likes, and shares trigger dopamine releases, creating a cycle of addiction. We chase the momentary pleasure of validation, sacrificing our time, attention, and well-being in the process. The pursuit of endless engagement leads to a fragmentation of our attention spans and a superficiality in our interactions.

The Need for Resistance

To navigate the treacherous landscape of computational capitalism, we must cultivate a spirit of resistance. We must reclaim our agency and refuse to be reduced to data points or consumers of digital illusions. This resistance begins with a critical understanding of the technologies that shape our lives. It requires questioning their underlying assumptions, exposing their biases, and demanding accountability from those who wield computational power.

Moreover, we must prioritize human connection and authenticity. Face-to-face interactions, where empathy, vulnerability, and shared experiences can flourish, are essential for our well-being. We must create spaces for meaningful conversations, shared activities, and collective action.

Finally, we must advocate for a more equitable and humane computational capitalism. This means supporting companies that prioritize ethical practices, transparency, and user well-being. It means holding governments and regulators accountable for protecting our rights and freedoms in the digital age.

A Path to Redemption

The madness of computational capitalism is not inevitable. By reclaiming our agency, prioritizing authenticity, and demanding accountability, we can harness the transformative power of computation for good. We can create a society that embraces diversity, fosters well-being, and promotes human flourishing.

The path to redemption begins with recognizing the dark underbelly of computational capitalism and refusing to be complicit in its madness. It is a journey that requires courage, critical thinking, and a deep commitment to our humanity. Only by confronting the shadows can we emerge from the digital abyss and embrace a future where technology empowers us, rather than enslaves us.

The Age of Disruption: Technology and Madness in Computational Capitalism

by Bernard Stiegler

4.3 out of 5